Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong emphasizes the importance of water conservation and resilience at the Singapore World Water Day celebrations on 8 March 2025.

Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong delivered a speech at the Singapore World Water Day celebrations, stressing the importance of water security and sustainable usage amid climate challenges.

DPM Gan highlighted Singapore’s progress in water management since independence, recounting how the country overcame its initial dependence on imported water by developing a diversified and resilient supply through the Four National Taps – local catchments, imported water, NEWater, and desalinated water. He credited Singapore’s early leaders for their foresight and perseverance in pursuing innovative water solutions such as NEWater, which was formally introduced into the national water supply after three decades of research.

Despite these achievements, DPM Gan cautioned that Singapore must remain prepared for climate-induced challenges, including prolonged dry spells. He cited the 2014 dry spell, which lasted 27 days and required Singapore to supplement its reservoir levels with 25 million gallons of NEWater daily.

DPM Gan also announced that PUB is working with the private sector on a new household Water Savings Programme, which will help 1- to 3-room HDB households install more water-efficient fittings. More details on this initiative will be shared soon.

Additionally, businesses are encouraged to participate in the Water Efficiency Fund, which has supported over 380 projects since its launch in 2007, saving up to 16 million gallons of water per day. He cited RF360 Singapore, a subsidiary of Qualcomm Technologies, as an example of a company that has benefited from the fund multiple times, achieving significant water savings.

As Singapore celebrates SG60, DPM Gan urged everyone to continue valuing water and making every effort to conserve it. He concluded by reminding Singaporeans that “Every drop matters, every effort counts, and every Singaporean plays a role in securing our water future.”

Source – PMO